
Quartz vs. Quartzite: Which One Is Right For You?
Filed Under: Countertops By: East Coast Granite & Marble on April 13, 2023
Quartzite and Quartz are two high-end countertop materials both derived from quartzite. They are very popular options to homeowners but have several differences. The biggest difference between quartz and quartzite is that quartz is a man-made material, while quartzite is a natural stone.
Quartzite Countertops
Quartzite is an abundant metamorphic rock. It occurs naturally when sandstone in quartz experiences heat and high pressure. Quartzite is typically made of more than 90% quartzite; some can be as high as 99%. Quartzite typically comes in shades of white, light grey, and bluish gray but minerals in the stone can also include pink, gold, or reddish-brown hues.
Quartzite has a glassy appearance and resembles marble in some cases. Quartzite countertops, like marble or granite, are a natural stone and have a porous surface. They require a high-quality sealant to protect against staining.
Quartzite countertops are some of the most beautiful on the market. Those seeking a natural look with lots of movement may prefer a quartzite countertop. This desirable appearance has made quartzite one of the most popular countertop materials.
Quartz Countertops
While quartzite countertops are a natural stone, quartz countertops are made using engineered stone. This engineered stone is comprised of about 90% loose quartz. A quartz countertop is engineered with the same quartz crystals found in quartzite, but a man-made process binds the crystal with resins, pigments, and other materials such as bits of glass. Resin and pigments are added to bind the loose quartz and create the coloring of the countertops.
Because quartz is man-made and resin is added, no sealer is needed. Quartz is very durable and low-maintenance. It can even be made to resemble materials such as granite and marble. Quartz countertops are more durable than quartzite.
Quartz is offered in many different shades and patterns. If you have a specific color in mind, or want a low maintenance option, quartz would be a good choice.

Quartz vs. Granite vs. Marble: What is the Best Option in 2023??
Filed Under: Countertops By: East Coast Granite & Marble on April 21, 2023
Ready to replace your countertops? This is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make because your countertops are the center of your design and can add more value than you realize. There are so many materials available that the choice can be daunting. Granite, Quartz, and Marble are three of the best quality and sought-after stone countertops on the market. Granite is a popular choice due to its affordability and durability, while marble countertops have been the centerpiece of homes for centuries. Quartz on the other hand has become somewhat of a phenomenon recently with its marble-like features and unmatched durability. The question is which one is right for you? To help you decide, here is a guide comparing the similarities and differences between each material.
Granite Countertops
Granite is an igneous rock that consists of feldspar and quartz. Since many homeowners prefer a more natural-looking stone, it’s a popular choice for both traditional and contemporary homes.
Pros
Granite is one of the most durable stone countertops. It is scratch-resistant, heat-resistant, and stain-resistant. One of the best reasons to choose granite countertops for your kitchen is that the material is so durable that it resists chips and scratches under normal use. These are just some of the qualities that make it the perfect choice for many homeowners.
Granite is also a gorgeous material. Each slab is unique. It has a seemingly endless array of colors and finishes to choose from. Explore color options of white, yellow, gold, blue, grey, and black and its patterns of solid, marble, and speckled for a perfect focal point for your space. Granite’s finish options include polished, honed, leathered, and flamed.
Cons
Since granite is a natural stone, it is porous and needs to be sealed to maintain its beauty and longevity. It also has a more limited color selection compared to quartz. However, some sealants last for 25 years, and granite has much less maintenance than its other natural stone counterparts.
Marble Countertops
Marble is a metamorphic rock made up of recrystallized carbonate compounds formed with an immense amount of heat and pressure. Though it is available in an array color options, classic white marble is the most sought after choice of homeowners.
Pros
Marble is a classic choice for not only countertops but walls, flooring, and some of the world’s most famous statues and architecture. While there are numerous options for countertops, many feel that there are none comparable to the timeless beauty of marble.
Cons
Like any other natural stone, marble is quite porous and needs a little more maintenance. It needs to be professionally resealed a few times a year to ensure its longevity. Acids will etch marble leaving a white mark behind. While it does have more upkeep, marble has unsurpassed beauty and can withstand a lot of heat because of how it is formed.
Quartz Countertops
Quartzite is the most widely distributed mineral on earth. It along with resins and recycled materials is used to engineer quartz countertops. Many manufacturers may have their own method to engineer quartz countertops with varying percentages of quartzite and added metallic flecks for aesthetic purposes.
Pros
Quartz countertops are gorgeous and add a luxurious feel to any space. Quartz kitchen countertops have become an increasingly popular choice, and it is not difficult to see why. Quartz countertops are more scratch and chip resistant than granite. They have the widest array of finishes and colors since it is an engineered stone. Quartz’s finish options include polished, honed, rough, suede, concrete, and volcano.
Since quartz countertops are a man-made product they are not only durable but sealed from any bacteria. This is a nice advantage over natural stones as those need to be sealed to prevent staining and bacteria from seeping down into your countertops.
Cons
While quartz countertops are durable and low maintenance, they are not entirely heat-resistant. If you overexpose quartz countertops to heat they will melt and leave a burn mark on your countertop. This is the only area where quartz does not surpass other options. Its durability, beauty, and affordable price point all lend itself to being the perfect option for many homeowners.
Which Should You Choose?
When choosing your countertops, you want to make a decision that will make you happy and add the most value to your home. The choice you make will depend on what you prioritize whether it be uniformity, organic movement, maintenance, affordability, or durability. While you have to make the final call, hopefully we will be able to help you make the final decision.
If you prioritize variability in colors, durability, and low maintenance, granite countertops are perfect for you.
If you prioritize timeless beauty, organic movement and heat resistance than marble is a great choice for you. As long as you don’t mind the added maintenance, marble is a excellent choice for homeowners who love to bake.
If you prioritize customization, low maintenance, uniformity and unsurpassed durability, quartz will be a great fit for you. Just be sure to be careful to avoid burning the surface.
Regardless of whichever material you choose for your countertops, we have everything you need with hundreds of slabs to choose from. When you’re ready to design the kitchen of your dreams, contact us for a free in-home estimate!

Countertop Template: What It Is, Why It is Important, and How to Prepare
Filed Under: Countertops By: East Coast Granite & Marble on April 13, 2023
New countertops are the most important and largest investment of the kitchen remodeling process. They can radically transform any space and add significant value to your home. However, before your countertops are installed, you must go through the templating process. Here is a guide that will go through the countertop template process including what it is, why it is important, and how to prepare for your template appointment.
What is Templating?
Templating is the process of creating a template that has the exact measurements of your countertop. Without a template, the fabricator cannot accurately manufacture your countertop.
How Can You Prepare for Your Template Appointment?
There are a few things you will need to do before your template appointment:
- Make sure your cabinets are level and secure
- Make sure all appliances are on site
- Remove any objects on and around your countertops
- Locate your water cut off valve before the technicians arrive
- Set up a temporary workspace and prepare meals ahead of time
- Ensure an adult over the age of 18 will be present to make decisions
How is Templating Done?
On the day of your appointment, a skilled technician will arrive and remove any existing countertops to take the measurements of your cabinets. There are two options countertop fabricators use to create a template: the stick method and the digital method. The stick method entails using plastic material and hot glue or acetone to create a template. This gives the fabricator a physical outline to place on a slab and cut out your countertop. The digital method involves using a high-intensity laser that records the dimensions and sends information to a computer. At the fabrication facility, a technician adds any overhands and cutouts, the template is laid out, and the stone is cut. We use the stick method because it allows our experienced technicians to quickly customize the template on-site and add any pertinent details that the customer desires.
HOW COUNTERTOP TEMPLATES ARE CREATED STEP-BY-STEP | |
---|---|
Step 1 | A technician arrives to take measurements |
Step 2 | They remove the existing countertop to measure the cabinets |
Step 3 | A physical template is created using plastic material and hot glue or acetone |
Step 4 | Any pertinent details such as overhangs, cut-outs, or customizations on the template |
Step 5 | The template will be laid out on the slab. Our customers can choose where to place the template depending on which material you choose. |
Step 6 | Lastly, the stone is cut out using the specific measurements of your countertop |
Can You Make a Countertop Template on Your Own?
For stone countertops, you must have a professional complete the templating and installation process. Having an experienced professional complete the job will ensure accuracy, which is particularly important in such a large investment. If the measurements are even a fraction incorrect, it can cause issues with your project.
What Happens Next?
After the templating process is complete, you can set up an appointment to select where to place the template on the slab. Then the stone will be cut to reflect the exact measurements drafted during the template appointment. Lastly, you can set up a day for our team to deliver and install your new countertops.
Stone countertops can add visual appeal, increase the functionality of your space, and add value to your home. If you have any questions, please consult our team of experts or another design professional. We have everything you need from countertops to cabinets. With over 15 years of experience, we’ve mastered multiple kitchen styles. When you’re ready to design the kitchen of your dreams, contact us for a free in-home estimate!

Transform Your Bathroom with These Stunning Tile Trends for 2023
Filed Under: Tile By: East Coast Granite & Marble on March 30, 2023
Your bathroom is more than just a place to get ready in the morning; it's a sanctuary where you can relax, unwind, and pamper yourself. And what better way to enhance your bathroom experience than by updating your tiles? With so many exciting tile trends emerging for 2023, you can transform your bathroom into a stylish and functional space that reflects your unique taste and personality. From bold colors and geometric patterns to metallic and iridescent finishes, there's a tile trend out there that's perfect for you. In this article, we'll explore some of the most stunning tile trends for 2023 that will elevate your bathroom to the next level.
Bold and Bright Tile Colors
If you're tired of the same old white and beige tiles, then it's time to embrace bold and bright colors that will add a pop of personality to your bathroom. In 2023, we're seeing a resurgence of jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, as well as playful pastels like blush pink, mint green, and baby blue. These colors are perfect for creating a statement wall or adding a fun accent to your shower or tub. And if you're feeling really adventurous, you can even mix and match different colors and patterns for a playful and eclectic look.
When choosing bold and bright tile colors, it's important to balance them with neutral elements like white walls, natural wood accents, or matte black fixtures. This will prevent your bathroom from looking too overwhelming or busy. Additionally, you can use color psychology to create a specific mood or atmosphere in your bathroom. For example, blue is known for its calming and soothing effects, while red is associated with passion and energy.
Geometric and Patterned Tiles
Another tile trend that's taking the design world by storm is geometric and patterned tiles. These tiles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from hexagons and diamonds to chevrons and Moroccan-inspired motifs. They are perfect for creating a bold and graphic statement in your bathroom, and they can be used on floors, walls, or even in the shower. One of the great things about geometric and patterned tiles is that they can be mixed and matched to create a unique and personalized look. You can use larger tiles in a neutral color as a base, and then add smaller tiles in a bold pattern for a fun and playful accent. Or, you can create a feature wall behind your vanity or bathtub with a mix of different shapes and colors.
Metallic and Iridescent Tiles
If you're looking for a luxurious and glamorous tile trend, then metallic and iridescent tiles are the way to go. These tiles come in a range of finishes, from shiny gold and silver to subtle rose gold and copper. They can be used as a statement wall or as an accent to add a touch of elegance to your bathroom.
One benefit of metallic and iridescent tiles is that they reflect light, which can make your bathroom feel brighter and more spacious. They can also be combined with other materials like marble, concrete, or wood to create a unique and sophisticated look.
Large Format Tiles
Large format tiles are perfect to create a seamless and contemporary look in your bathroom. These tiles come in a range of sizes, from 24x24 inches to 48x48 inches, and they can be used on floors, walls, and even in the shower. They are perfect for creating a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom and making it feel more open and airy. Large format tiles require fewer grout lines, which can make your bathroom feel sleeker and easier to clean. They are made of materials like porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone to create a unique and customized look.
Textured Tiles
To add a touch of depth and dimension to your bathroom, then textured tiles are the way to go. These tiles come in a variety of finishes, from matte and rough to glossy and smooth. They are perfect for creating a tactile and sensory experience in your bathroom and adding a touch of personality to your space.
One of the great things about textured tiles is that they can be used in a variety of shapes and sizes to create a unique and customized look. You can use textured tiles in a herringbone pattern for a classic and timeless look, or in a random pattern for a more playful and eclectic look. Additionally, you can combine different textures to create a layered and interesting look.
Wood-Look Tiles
If you love the look of wood but don't want to deal with the maintenance and moisture issues, then wood-look tiles are the perfect solution. These tiles come in a variety of finishes, from light and natural to dark and rustic. They are perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your bathroom and adding a touch of nature to your space. Wood-look tiles can be used in a variety of patterns and layouts to create a unique and personalized look. Additionally, you can combine them with other materials like concrete or stone to create a modern and industrial look. If you have a traditional or rustic-style bathroom, you may want to opt for a more natural and textured finish. If you have a modern or industrial-style bathroom, you can go for a more sleek and uniform finish.
Choosing the Right Tile for Your Bathroom
With so many exciting tile trends to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for your bathroom. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect tile for your space:
- Consider the overall style and aesthetic of your bathroom. If you have a modern and minimalistic bathroom, you may want to opt for a more sleek and uniform tile. On the other hand, if you have a vintage or bohemian-style bathroom, you can go for a more eclectic and playful tile.
- Think about the size and scale of your bathroom. If you have a small bathroom, you may want to opt for smaller tiles to avoid overwhelming the space. On the other hand, if you have a large bathroom, you can go for bigger tiles to create a sense of grandeur.
- Consider the maintenance and durability of the tile. If you have a high-traffic bathroom or kids and pets, you may want to opt for a more durable and easy-to-clean tile. On the other hand, if you have a low-traffic bathroom or want a more luxurious look, you can go for a more delicate and high-maintenance tile.
- Don't be afraid to mix and match different tiles to create a unique and personalized look. Just make sure to balance bold and neutral elements to avoid overwhelming the space.
Installation Considerations for Bathroom Tiles
Once you've chosen the perfect tile for your bathroom, it's important to consider the installation process. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Hire a professional tile installer who has experience with bathroom installations. This will ensure that your tiles are installed correctly and will last for years to come.
- Make sure your installer is well-trained in waterproofing procedures and uses high-quality adhesives, grout, and epoxy. At East Coast Granite our installers use the best materials to guarantee your project will last.
- Consider the layout and pattern of your tiles. Make sure to plan your layout and pattern ahead of time to avoid mistakes and ensure a seamless and cohesive look.
- Consider the maintenance and cleaning of your tiles. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintaining your tiles to ensure that they stay looking great for years to come.
Conclusion
Your bathroom is an important space that deserves to be treated with care and attention to detail. With so many exciting tile trends for 2023, you can transform your bathroom into a stylish and functional oasis that reflects your unique taste and personality. From bold colors and geometric patterns to metallic and iridescent finishes, there are plenty of exciting options to choose from that will suit any taste and budget. Just remember to choose the right tile for your space, and hire a professional installer to ensure a seamless and long-lasting installation. Happy bathroom remodeling!

Why a Tile Backsplash is a Must-Have in Your Kitchen: 5 Benefits You Can't Ignore
Filed Under: Tile By: East Coast Granite & Marble on March 30, 2023
As someone who loves cooking, I believe that the kitchen is the heart of the home. It's where I spend most of my time, whipping up delicious meals for my family and friends. That's why I always make sure that my kitchen is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. One way to achieve this is by installing a tile backsplash. In this article, I will discuss the benefits of having a tile backsplash in your kitchen and why it's a must-have.
The Benefits of a Tile Backsplash in Your Kitchen
Benefit #1: Protection from Moisture and Stains
Cooking can get messy, especially when you're making sauces and frying foods. Splatters and spills are inevitable, and they can leave stains on your kitchen walls. A tile backsplash provides a protective layer against moisture and stains, keeping your walls looking clean and new. Tiles are made of durable materials such as ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone, which can withstand high levels of humidity and heat. Moreover, you can easily wipe off any spills or splatters without damaging the tiles.
Benefit #2: Easy to Clean and Maintain
Cleaning your kitchen can be a daunting task, but with a tile backsplash, it's much easier. Tiles are non-porous, which means they don't absorb moisture or food particles. As a result, you can clean them with a damp cloth or sponge and some mild detergent. Additionally, tiles are resistant to mold and mildew, so you don't have to worry about any unpleasant odors or health hazards.
Benefit #3: Adds Aesthetic Appeal and Value to Your Home
A tile backsplash can transform the look of your kitchen, making it more stylish and modern. Tiles come in a variety of colors, shapes, and patterns, allowing you to create a unique design that reflects your personality and taste. You can choose a classic subway tile or go for a bold and vibrant mosaic. Whatever your preference, a tile backsplash can add aesthetic appeal and value to your home. In fact, according to a survey by the National Association of Home Builders, a tile backsplash is one of the top features that homebuyers look for in a kitchen.
Benefit #4: Versatile Design Options to Fit Any Style
Tiles offer endless design possibilities, making them suitable for any style of kitchen. If you have a traditional or farmhouse-style kitchen, you can opt for a rustic or textured tile that complements the wood cabinets and countertops. For a more contemporary look, you can choose a sleek and glossy tile that adds a touch of sophistication. Additionally, you can mix and match different tiles to create a unique and personalized design that suits your style.
Benefit #5: Cost-Effective Upgrade
A tile backsplash is a cost-effective upgrade that can enhance the look and function of your kitchen without breaking the bank. Compared to other renovation projects a tile backsplash is relatively affordable. Moreover, it’s relatively easy to replace any damaged tiles without disrupting the entire backsplash. You can simply remove the crack tile, replace it, and re-grout it in place.
Types of Tile Backsplash Materials and Designs
When it comes to choosing a tile backsplash, there are several materials and designs to choose from. Here are some of the most popular options:
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for backsplashes due to their durability and affordability. They come in a wide range of colors and patterns, making them suitable for any style of kitchen. Additionally, ceramic tiles are easy to clean and maintain, making them ideal for busy homeowners.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are similar to ceramic tiles but are denser and more durable. They are resistant to scratches, chips, and stains, making them ideal for high-traffic areas such as kitchens. Porcelain tiles come in various sizes and styles, including textured and matte finishes.
Natural Stone Tiles
Natural stone tiles, such as marble, granite, and travertine, add a luxurious and elegant touch to any kitchen. They are durable and resistant to heat and scratches, making them ideal for cooking and food preparation. However, they require more maintenance compared to ceramic or porcelain tiles.
Mosaic Tiles
Mosaic tiles are small tiles that come in different shapes and colors. They can be used to create intricate patterns and designs, adding a unique and personalized touch to your kitchen. Mosaic tiles are ideal for accent walls or as a border around your backsplash.
A tile backsplash is a must-have in your kitchen due to its numerous benefits. When choosing a tile backsplash, consider the material and design that best suits your style and needs. Whether you opt for ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, or mosaic tiles, a tile backsplash can transform your kitchen into a stylish and functional space.
So, if you're planning to renovate your kitchen or simply want to upgrade its look, consider installing a tile backsplash. It's an investment that will pay off in the long run, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality.

5 Reasons To Design Kitchens With Shaker Cabinets
Filed Under: Cabinets By: East Coast Granite & Marble on April 13, 2023
Shaker cabinets are one of the best choices for timeless kitchen design. These cabinets are a versatile design choice, working well for transitional, contemporary, modern, or traditional designs. Shaker style emphasizes simplicity and functionality.
1. Timeless Style
Shaker cabinets create a modern, clean, inviting style. These cabinets will not go out of style. Shaker cabinets have been popular since the mid 18th century when the Protestant sect named Shakers created them. The understated elegance and versatility can explain their ongoing popularity.
2. Classic White Shaker
White kitchens continue to be popular with homeowners. Shaker cabinets are a popular choice for all kitchen styles. The clean lines and sleek design make these cabinets an excellent choice for contemporary and modern design. Stainless steel appliances and modern decorative accents complement white Shaker cabinets well. However, they can just as easily be used with a traditional classic kitchen style. Adding the right countertops and hardware can definitely give Shaker cabinets a more traditional feel.
3. Shaker Cabinets Pair Well with Statement Countertops
The sleek design of shaker cabinets complement a more engaging statement piece for your countertop. The key is to find the right balance between the two design elements. You do not want your cabinets and countertops to be competing for visual interest. Open shelving is also an excellent design element to pair with Shaker cabinets.
4. Easy to Clean
Cabinets with embellished detail are beautiful, however they can be a cleaning nightmare. The simplistic design of Shaker cabinets mean they attract less dust and grime, making them easier to clean. To clean your Shaker cabinets use a mild cleaner and a damp cloth to wipe down.
5. Simple, Calming Design
Shaker cabinets are built with a flat center panel with square edges and minimal detailing. This is a practical design with clean symmetry. This type of design creates a visual calming effect. If you are looking to create a low-stress environment, Shaker cabinets are a great choice.

Kitchen Cabinet Color Trends
Filed Under: Cabinets By: East Coast Granite & Marble on March 30, 2023
Looking to update your kitchen cabinets but not sure what to choose? Whether you are interested in a deep color choice or something more neutral there is an option for everyone. Take a look at what is trending in 2023.
Espresso Cabinets
Espresso kitchen cabinets are quickly becoming one of of the hottest design trends. Espresso cabinets are a sophisticated shade of dark wood that can create a modern feel with a timeless touch. One of the great things about Espresso kitchen cabinets is that they can stand alone or be paired with a lighter kitchen island for contrast to create a two tone kitchen design. If you want a rich, elegant look in your kitchen or bathroom, then Espresso cabinets are a great choice.
Green Cabinets
Green cabinets have become all the rage, adding a spark of color and interest to your space. All shades of green are appearing in kitchens, from blue-green, hunter green, sage green, to a calm light green. Green can add personality and an unexpected beauty to your kitchen. Greens are also a very earthy organic color that can go well with a rustic or farmhouse design.
Gray Cabinets
Gray kitchen cabinets have come a long way from their “blah” reputation. Gray kitchen cabinets give a since of sophistication to your kitchen while still maintaining a clean design. Gray cabinets offer a balance of warmth and neutrality. Gray works well with virtually any countertop or design style. The neutral hue is a timeless choice so it won't go out of style in a few years.
Blue Cabinets
One of today’s hottest trends is the use of blue cabinets in kitchens. Blue can be used for its calming effects, and the feeling of harmony it brings to those in a room. This color has proven to be popular in kitchens and bathrooms alike, given its bold yet versatile appearance. Light blue tones can bring energy to a space while navy blue finishes are best for traditional, conservative kitchen designs. You will often see blue cabinets used in two tone kitchen cabinet designs as well.

Does A Kitchen Renovation Increase Your Home Value?
Filed Under: Cabinets By: East Coast Granite & Marble on March 30, 2023
The kitchen is the center of your home, where families gather for meals and celebrations and memories are made. The kitchen is the focal point of your home and updating this space can make the most impact. You can add your personal style with a beautiful kitchen renovation while also adding value to your home. Remodeling projects that offer modern upgrades typically result in a higher resale value. What features add the most value in a kitchen remodel?
Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets are one of the most versatile and customizable feature in a remodel. There are many designs and colors you can choose to add your personal style. Blues and greens are becoming a very popular choice to add some interest to your space. New cabinets also add improved functionally and storage with many organizational options now available, such as pull out drawer for trash cans, pull down rack for spices, pull up stand for mixer, and many other options. Adding new hardware is a great way to dress up your cabinets and create the finishing touch.
Door Styles - These are some of the most popular door styles. You may see variations on each of these styles.
Recessed Panel
These cabinets get their name because their center panel rests inside a center frame. These cabinets are typically called Shaker cabinets and are probably the most popular with homeowners. The pared back design works well in modern and traditional design styles. Recessed panel cabinets are an affordable option in a kitchen remodel.
Raised Panel
On this cabinet door, the center panel is raised instead of recessed. These type of cabinets are more frequently seen in a traditional kitchen. Raised Panel cabinets have a varying degree of detail depending on which one you choose. Raised Panel cabinets tend to cost more than recessed because of the increased amount of detail.
Slab/ Flat Panel
Slab Panel cabinet doors are a very modern choice. Their door panel is completely flat with a very simplistic design with no trim. Because of their design it makes them very affordable and easy to clean.
Open
Open cabinet paneling exposes the interior cabinet shelving. Adding mullion glass doors is also an option. However, these can be used completely open. The open cabinet is a great choice if you have dishes, or glasses you would like to display. Pricing depends on choice of glass doors chosen.
Countertops
Countertops are an important investment and one that makes a huge impact in the appearance of your kitchen and its resale value. New countertops give an instant “facelift” to your kitchen and will definitely attract buyers. Upgraded countertops can give your kitchen an upscale modern feel. There are a lot of kitchen countertop options on the market right now, but the most popular and profitable for resale are granite, quartz and marble.
Granite
Granite countertops have long been the most popular surface chosen by homeowners. It has been considered a luxury countertop option for decades. Granite is a favored choice because it is a natural stone that has many variations in colors and designs. There is nothing as stunning as a natural stone, and each granite slab is unique. There is a huge amount of granite slabs to choose from. Granite is beautiful, durable, and has an organic charm.
Quartz
The popularity of quartz countertops have definitely been on the rise. Quartz is an engineered material that is made of crushed quartz mixed with resin. Because of this quartz countertops are non-porous and don't require a sealer, making them very low-maintenance. They will not harbor bacteria and are scratch and stain-resistant. As a man-made material, quartz countertops have a vast array of color, veining, and pattern options. One of the most popular quartz varieties you will see is white quartz created to look like marble. These quartz countertops look great in most design styles and will create a timeless appeal.
Marble
Marble countertops are one of the most luxurious updates you can add to a kitchen. It is definitely one of the most sophisticated, elegant, timeless materials you can choose. Marble is also a natural stone and is known for its rich color and deep veining. Nothing surpasses the natural beauty of marble. Marble countertops are often a great choice for a kitchen island. Marble countertops are softer than granite or quartz and will require a sealer. Marble naturally stays cool. They are a great choice for bakers.
No matter what material you choose, to add the most value to your home, find an experienced fabricator to cut, finish and install your new countertops. Countertops that are not properly installed are more likely to chip, crack, or stain. And as always, working with an experienced professional who can get the job done right will add the most value to your home! Remember, we offer free in home estimates for countertops and cabinets!